On Friday, June 1st, the Progressive Women's Association presented the "Women of Distinction Award" to ten deserving Harrison County Women. The PWA hosted a luncheon in their honor.

The women honored were Trish Armstead, Rose Clark, Zeny Cunanan, Jamie Hamrick, Donna Hergenrether, Jeanny Kalaycioglu, Phyllis Moore, Desiree Poling, Joyce Rabanal, and Christy Hardin Smith. The group included a police officer, a member of the US Air Force, an author, a nurse practitioner, a nurse, an attorney, educators and business women. What they all had in common is their desire to volunteer for many varied programs that make our community a better place to live.

The keynote speaker was Dr. Mirta Martin, the new president of Fairmont State University. Speaking to approximately 90 people who attended the luncheon, Dr. Martin shared her life experiences of leaving Cuba, going to Spain and then settling in the United States. Her message to the audience was how important it is to "pass it on."

President Martin told the story of an individual giving her the application fee to apply to Harvard. She was ultimately accepted but it would not have been possible without the help of this individual. Last month she spoke to a graduating class and she helped each of them apply for college with her own donation. She outlined the hardships and challenges she faced to be in the position she is now. There was hardly a dry eye in the audience when she was done.

Presentations were made to the honorees by Mayor Cathy Goings, the luncheon sponsor Dave Bolyard from Davis Funeral Home and Kathy Titus, the Clarksburg CVB director. Jimmie Mazzie led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance and Sister Anne Francis gave the blessing. The lunch was prepared and served by the PWA membership and volunteers.

The PWA's Women of Distinction program is held three times a year. The next ceremony will be held in October in observance of Italian Culture Month. Nominations can be made by the public of an Italian American woman in Harrison County. Submit a written resume to the PWA office highlighting the Individuals career and her volunteer efforts. Elinda Carson is the director of the PWA.

The City of Bridgeport hosted a street fair last Saturday night to mark the start of summer. It was a beautiful evening. There was plenty of food, entertainment and music. It was so well attended that I am sure it will become an annual event.

Mark June 30th on your calendar for the Vera Bradley Bingo to be held at the VFW at noon.

Keep in mind that the PWA dining area is available to rent for your next party, shower, fundraiser or birthday party. Call Elinda at (304) 624-6881 for more information on available dates.

Keep in touch and until next week "Now You Have Heard It Through The Grapevine."